🔗 Share this article New York's next mayor affirms his intention to reside in the storied Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point throughout his campaign. A Traditional Abode Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors after the post-war period. But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central policy, hesitated to declare his residency plans promptly after his electoral win in November. "The choice came down to the security of my family and the importance of directing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement. Leaving Astoria Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining. "To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said. "Even though I'm moving in Astoria, Astoria will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added. Political Debate Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements. However his opponents, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit although he is from a prominent family. Not All Mayors Stayed Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on the Upper East Side during his tenure, which ended in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a place for official events, and pushed for a major refurbishment of the older mansion. The outside of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Vastly Different Setting Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will experience surroundings far removed from his previous Astoria digs. Adorned in cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River. Within, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period. The compound, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family. Supernatural Speculation Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man." A Critical Policy Issue Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year. New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent rises faster than what many can afford. Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment. According to the real estate platform Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.