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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core issue, hesitated to declare this decision immediately following his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on our family's safety and the importance of directing my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

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

"Even though I'm moving there, it will forever remain inside me and the work I do," he said.

Political Debate

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant.

Yet his opponents, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment even though he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a venue for public city functions, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria home.

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

Inside, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

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

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as valuable lifelines as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford.

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

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