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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that sparked debate throughout his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors since the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, was not quick to announce this decision right away following his electoral win in November.

"The choice rested on our family's safety and the need to directing my complete efforts on implementing the agenda for affordability voters supported," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its diverse cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, the community will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he said.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani connected his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his opponents, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the affordable housing although he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a venue for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings very different than his humble Astoria home.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

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

The property, which is said to has several bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the housing expenses outpaces the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.