🔗 Share this article

New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key policy, hesitated to declare this decision promptly following his electoral win in November.

"This decision came down to the security of my family and the need to directing my complete efforts on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents elected me on," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area famous for its diverse cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, Astoria will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

A Contentious Issue

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his core platform – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

But his opponents, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing even though he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, kept his residence in his private home on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a place for public city functions, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his modest Astoria digs.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Inside, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period.

The property, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much landlords can raise the rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing outpaces what many can afford.

It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.