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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue during his run for office.

An Iconic Home

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, was not quick to announce this decision right away following his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on our family's safety and the need to directing my full attention on implementing the affordability agenda the city's residents elected me on," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district known for its vibrant immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: many thanks for demonstrating what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will always live inside me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

But his critics, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit even though he came from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his tenure, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting far removed from his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished to reflect the home's original era.

The compound, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the housing expenses outpaces what many can afford.

Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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