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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that became a focal point during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for most New York City mayors after the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key policy, was not quick to announce this decision immediately after his electoral win in November.

"My choice came down to keeping my family safe and the need to directing my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area renowned for its abundance of immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, it will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he said.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment although he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

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

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his humble Astoria apartment.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Ghostly Tales

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

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

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city imposes caps on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent rises faster than what many can afford.

Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $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.