NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue during his campaign.
Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.
But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, was not quick to announce his residency plans promptly following his victory in November.
"This decision came down to our family's safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in a statement.
He resided in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its vibrant immigrant populations and international dining.
"To Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he noted.
"While I may no longer live in Astoria, it will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.
In his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his central policy – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.
But his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.
Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.
In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.
As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his humble Astoria home.
Adorned in butter yellow paint, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.
Within, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's early 19th-century origins.
The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.
A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.
Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."
Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year.
Tenants see such units as essential protections as the price of rent rises faster than the average income.
Records showed Mamdani paid about $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.
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