🔗 Share this article Zohran Mamdani confirms his intention to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point during his run for office. A Historic Residence Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era. Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key issue, hesitated to declare his residency plans promptly following his victory in November. "This decision rested on the security of my family and the imperative to directing all of my focus on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents supported," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement. A Fond Farewell He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and global cuisine. "To Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he expressed. "While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, it will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he added. Political Debate Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani connected his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant. But his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he hails 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 own townhouse on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a venue for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion. The exterior of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Vastly Different Setting As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his humble Astoria digs. With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River. Inside, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period. The estate, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family. Haunted History Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily. Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much landlords can raise the rent each year. City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing exceeds the average income. It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment. According to real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.