🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani states he will make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue throughout his election bid. A Traditional Abode Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century. However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, hesitated to declare he would live there promptly following his victory in November. "My choice came down to the security of my family and the importance of focusing my full attention on carrying out the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said in a statement. A Fond Farewell He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community known for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining. "To Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," he expressed. "Although my address will change in Astoria, it will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he affirmed. Political Debate In his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation. Yet his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing although he came from a well-known family. Previous Exceptions Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which concluded in 2012. In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation 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 first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment. Adorned in butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River. Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's original era. The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family. Haunted History Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers. Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can raise the rent each year. City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford. Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment. Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.