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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

An Iconic Home

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

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central platform, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately following his electoral win in November.

"This decision came down to keeping my family safe and the need to directing my full attention on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area famous for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, the community will always live a part of me and my work," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his critics, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment despite the fact that he came from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment very different than his previous Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era.

The property, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the property website Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.