🔗 Share this article

NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that sparked debate throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

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

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key issue, did not confirm this decision right away after his victory in November.

"My choice was based on our family's safety and the need to directing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers supported," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its abundance of immigrant populations and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, Astoria will continue to reside within me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

Yet his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the apartment although he hails from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors 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 throughout his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

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

Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

The compound, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where 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 housing expenses exceeds the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $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.