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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key policy, did not confirm he would live there right away after his victory in November.

"The choice was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability New Yorkers elected me on," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change there, it will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his opponents, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a space for public city functions, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment far removed from his modest Astoria apartment.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

The estate, which is said to has several bedrooms, also has enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

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

Tenants see such units as essential protections as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

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

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.