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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue during his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors since the World War II era.

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

"This decision came down to the security of my family and the importance of focusing all of my focus on carrying out the affordability agenda voters voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

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

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his central policy – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing although he hails from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a venue for public city functions, and pushed for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings very different than his humble Astoria digs.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated to reflect the home's historical period.

The property, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, a policy where the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents see such units as crucial resources as the price of rent rises faster than the means of many residents.

It was reported Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the property website Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.