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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core issue, did not confirm this decision right away following his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on the security of my family and the importance of dedicating my full attention on enacting the agenda for affordability New Yorkers supported," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a community known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, it will continue to reside inside me and my work," he added.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

However his rivals, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for official events, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his modest Astoria apartment.

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

Within, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.