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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point during his run for office.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors after the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm his residency plans right away after his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on the security of my family and the importance of focusing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

His home was in Astoria, Queens, an area known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

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

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, Astoria will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant.

However his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a space for public city functions, and championed a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting very different than his modest Astoria digs.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can increase rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.