🔗 Share this article New York's next mayor affirms he will reside in the storied Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point during his run for office. An Iconic Home Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the post-war period. But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central issue, did not confirm this decision promptly after his victory in November. "My choice came down to keeping my family safe and the need to dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda the city's residents supported," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement. A Fond Farewell He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine. "To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed. "While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said. Campaign Controversy In his campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation. But his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing even though he came from a well-known family. Not All Mayors Stayed Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which ended in 2012. Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion. The facade of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Stately Residence When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment. With its butter yellow paint, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River. Inside, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era. The property, which is said to has several bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family. Haunted History A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man." Affordable Housing Lifeline His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year. City residents consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford. Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment. According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.