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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate in his run for office.

An Iconic Home

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

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on the security of my family and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on enacting the affordability agenda the city's residents elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its diverse immigrant communities and global cuisine.

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

"Even though I'm moving there, the community will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing even though he is from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a space for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring butter yellow paint, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The compound, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

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

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the housing expenses rises faster than the average income.

It was reported Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.