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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors from the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key policy, hesitated to declare his residency plans promptly following his electoral win in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of dedicating my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district renowned for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining.

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

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and my work," he said.

Campaign Controversy

In his election campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

However his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit although he hails from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors 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 for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a place for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his modest 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.

Within, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, meaning 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 housing expenses rises faster than what many can afford.

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

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.