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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate in his election bid.

An Iconic Home

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors since the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, did not confirm this decision immediately after his victory in November.

"This decision was based on our family's safety and the importance of dedicating my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district renowned for its diverse cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the best of New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, it will forever remain a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his core platform – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

But his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a space for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment very different than his previous Astoria digs.

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

Within, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, a policy where the city regulates on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers see such units as essential protections as the cost of housing rises faster than the average income.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.