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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core platform, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately following his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on our family's safety and the need to directing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability New Yorkers elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving there, it will always live a part of me and the work I do," he added.

A Contentious Issue

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

But his rivals, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and pushed for a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his modest Astoria digs.

With its butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house overlooking the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing outpaces the means of many residents.

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

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