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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue during his election bid.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, did not confirm this decision right away following his victory in November.

"This decision came down to keeping my family safe and the importance of dedicating my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability New Yorkers supported," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain within me and my work," he added.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his critics, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

With its butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

The estate, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

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."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds the means of many residents.

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

According to the property website Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.