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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key policy, hesitated to declare this decision immediately following his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on the security of my family and the importance of focusing all of my focus on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its abundance of immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

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

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

Political Debate

During his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his central policy – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing despite the fact that he came from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a space for public city functions, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

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

The compound, which is said to has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the price of rent exceeds what many can afford.

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

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