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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

An Iconic Home

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

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central policy, was not quick to announce his residency plans right away following his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of directing all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will always live within me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

A Contentious Issue

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his rivals, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment even though he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

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 for his three terms, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a place for public city functions, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting far removed from his previous Astoria apartment.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's original era.

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

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the housing expenses exceeds what many can afford.

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

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.