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The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm he would live there promptly following his electoral win in November.

"This decision rested on our family's safety and the importance of dedicating my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability voters supported," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned for its abundance of cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his central policy – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

However his opponents, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for official events, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting far removed from his previous Astoria digs.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent exceeds the means of many residents.

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

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.