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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors since the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, hesitated to declare this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on the security of my family and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability voters supported," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in Astoria, Queens, an area known for its abundance of cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change there, it will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

In his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his opponents, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit even though he is from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

With its pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's original era.

The compound, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Past occupants have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as valuable lifelines as the cost of housing rises faster than what many can afford.

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

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.