🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani affirms his intention to reside in the storied Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate in his run for office. A Historic Residence Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for most New York City mayors from the mid-20th century. However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key platform, did not confirm this decision promptly after his victory in November. "My choice rested on keeping my family safe and the need to directing my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability voters elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement. Thanking a Neighborhood Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its abundance of cultural enclaves and international dining. "To the people of Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," he expressed. "Although my address will change there, it will continue to reside within me and my efforts as mayor," he added. A Contentious Issue In his election campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation. But his rivals, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a famous family. A House Not Always Used Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for public city functions, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion. The facade of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Vastly Different Setting Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting very different than his modest Astoria home. Featuring cream-colored walls, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River. Within, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins. The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures 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, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization His former home is under rent control, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year. Tenants see such units as valuable lifelines as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents. It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment. Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.