🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani states plans to reside in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate in his run for office. A Historic Residence Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century. Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core platform, hesitated to declare his residency plans immediately after his triumph in November. "My choice rested on keeping my family safe and the importance of directing my complete efforts on implementing the affordability agenda voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement. A Fond Farewell He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned 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. "While I may no longer live there, it will forever remain within me and my work," he affirmed. Political Debate During his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant. However his opponents, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the apartment even though he hails from a well-known family. A House Not Always Used Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012. Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for public city functions, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion. The outside of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Grand New Home As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment. With its pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River. Within, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished consistent with the home's historical period. The estate, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family. Ghostly Tales Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers. Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much landlords can raise the rent each year. City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing outpaces the means of many residents. Records showed Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment. Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.