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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that sparked debate in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core platform, hesitated to declare this decision promptly after his victory in November.

"The choice was based on the security of my family and the imperative to dedicating my full attention on enacting the agenda for affordability the city's residents supported," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

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

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, it will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

However his rivals, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.

With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

Inside, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed consistent with the home's original era.

The estate, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, meaning the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing outpaces the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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