🔗 Share this article New York's next mayor states plans to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his campaign. A Historic Residence Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century. However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key issue, did not confirm this decision promptly following his electoral win in November. "This decision rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on implementing the affordability agenda voters supported," stated Mamdani in his announcement. A Fond Farewell Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district known for its abundance of cultural enclaves and culinary diversity. "To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said. "Even though I'm moving in Astoria, it will continue to reside inside me and my work," he added. A Contentious Issue Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant. But his rivals, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment although he hails from a prominent family. A House Not Always Used Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012. Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a venue for official events, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the older mansion. The exterior of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Vastly Different Setting When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting very different than his humble Astoria digs. With its pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River. Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era. The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family. Supernatural Speculation A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man." Affordable Housing Lifeline Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can raise the rent each year. New Yorkers consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing exceeds the means of many residents. Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment. According to the property website Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.