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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the post-war period.

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

"The choice came down to the security of my family and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

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

"Although my address will change in Astoria, the community will always live within me and the work I do," he said.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the affordable housing even though he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side during his tenure, which concluded in 2012.

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

A Grand New Home

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

With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent stabilised, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the price of rent exceeds what many can afford.

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

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