🔗 Share this article

NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that sparked debate in his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core policy, did not confirm his residency plans promptly following his victory in November.

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on enacting the affordability agenda the city's residents elected me on," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

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

"To Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live there, Astoria will always live within me and the work I do," he added.

A Contentious Issue

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment even though he hails from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for official events, and championed a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his humble Astoria digs.

With its pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period.

The property, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

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 floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

Tenants see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds what many can afford.

It was reported Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the property website Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.