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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point throughout his run for office.

An Iconic Home

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key issue, hesitated to declare this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision came down to the security of my family and the need to directing my complete efforts on implementing the affordability agenda voters voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

His home was in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change there, Astoria will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing although he hails from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side during his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for public city functions, and pushed for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his previous Astoria apartment.

With its cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's original era.

The property, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care 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 imposes caps on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

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

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

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