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The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the mayoral home for most New York City mayors from the post-war period.

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

"My choice came down to our family's safety and the importance of directing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability voters voted for," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district famous for its vibrant immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, it will continue to reside within me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

However his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the apartment despite the fact that he is from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a place for public city functions, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

Featuring butter yellow paint, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house overlooking the East River.

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

The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents see such units as crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than what many can afford.

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

According to the property website Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.