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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core platform, was not quick to announce this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision came down to the security of my family and the imperative to dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers supported," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving there, the community will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

However his opponents, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting far removed from his modest Astoria home.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is decorated to reflect the home's historical period.

The estate, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

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

City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the price of rent exceeds the average income.

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

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