New York's next mayor confirms he will make his home in historic Gracie Mansion
New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue during his campaign.
A Traditional Abode
Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.
However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly following his electoral win in November.
"This decision was based on the security of my family and the imperative to directing my full attention on implementing the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement.
Leaving Astoria
He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area famous for its vibrant immigrant populations and global cuisine.
"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.
"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, the community will continue to reside a part of me and my work," he said.
Campaign Controversy
During his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.
However his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.
Not All Mayors Stayed
Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.
Instead, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a place for public city functions, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.
A Stately Residence
When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his previous Astoria digs.
Adorned in butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.
Internally, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's original era.
The property, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts 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 wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."
The Value of Rent Stabilization
The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city imposes caps on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.
Tenants consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing outpaces the average income.
Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.
Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.
