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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue in his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the mayoral home for most New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core issue, hesitated to declare this decision right away after his electoral win in November.

"My choice rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability New Yorkers elected me on," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, it will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

But his rivals, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the affordable housing despite the fact that he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his three terms, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria digs.

With its pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, meaning the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.