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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, hesitated to declare his residency plans immediately after his triumph in November.

"This decision came down to keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing my full attention on carrying out the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the best of New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain within me and the work I do," he affirmed.

A Contentious Issue

During his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his rivals, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit even though he hails from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a place for public city functions, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting far removed from his humble Astoria digs.

With its butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

The compound, which is said to has five bedrooms, also includes fortified protections to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is under rent control, which means the city regulates on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments essential protections as the housing expenses rises faster than what many can afford.

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

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.