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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, hesitated to declare this decision promptly following his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on our family's safety and the imperative to dedicating my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in Astoria, Queens, an area renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will always live a part of me and the work I do," he added.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit even though he hails from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a place for civic gatherings, and championed a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his modest Astoria digs.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Internally, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent exceeds the average income.

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

Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.