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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors after the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately after his victory in November.

"My choice was based on keeping my family safe and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the agenda for affordability voters voted for," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area famous for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

However his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the affordable housing although he is from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed to reflect the home's original era.

The compound, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing outpaces the average income.

Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.