🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani confirms his intention to reside in the storied Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his campaign. An Iconic Home Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors after the World War II era. But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, hesitated to declare this decision promptly following his electoral win in November. "The choice was based on the security of my family and the imperative to focusing my complete efforts on enacting the affordability agenda voters voted for," Mamdani said in a statement. Thanking a Neighborhood He resided in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining. "To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted. "Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, Astoria will continue to reside inside me and my work," he affirmed. A Contentious Issue Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant. Yet his critics, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the affordable housing although he hails from a famous family. Previous Exceptions Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which ended in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a space for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion. The facade of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Vastly Different Setting As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment. With its pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by 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 several bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family. Haunted History Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers. Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man." A Critical Policy Issue His former home is rent-stabilized, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year. New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than the average income. It was reported Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment. Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.