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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key policy, was not quick to announce his residency plans immediately following his victory in November.

"My choice came down to keeping my family safe and the imperative to dedicating all of my focus on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its diverse immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, Astoria will continue to reside inside me and the work I do," he affirmed.

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing although he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting very different than his humble Astoria apartment.

Featuring cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

Tenants see such units as crucial resources as the housing expenses outpaces the means of many residents.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.