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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central policy, did not confirm this decision immediately following his victory in November.

"My choice rested on our family's safety and the need to directing all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability New Yorkers voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area renowned for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, Astoria will continue to reside within me and the work I do," he said.

A Contentious Issue

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

However his opponents, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment although he came from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for civic gatherings, and championed a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his humble Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated to reflect the home's original era.

The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is under rent control, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.