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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors from the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central platform, did not confirm he would live there right away following his electoral win in November.

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, it will continue to reside a part of me and my work," he added.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a famous 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 for his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it should be a venue for official events, and championed significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his humble Astoria apartment.

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

Internally, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is decorated to reflect the home's original era.

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

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, which means the city imposes caps on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent exceeds the means of many residents.

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

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.