🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani confirms plans to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that was a central issue during his run for office. An Iconic Home Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the mayoral home for most New York City mayors from the post-war period. Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, hesitated to declare this decision immediately after his electoral win in November. "My choice was based on keeping my family safe and the need to directing my full attention on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday. Leaving Astoria Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and culinary diversity. "To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said. "While I may no longer live in Astoria, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and my work," he added. Political Debate In his campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements. However his rivals, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he hails from a prominent family. A House Not Always Used Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012. In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion. The facade of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Grand New Home When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience an environment far removed from his modest Astoria home. With its butter yellow paint, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River. Internally, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished consistent with the home's original era. The compound, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family. Ghostly Tales Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization His former home is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year. City residents view rent-stabilized housing 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. Based on data from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.