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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans right away following his victory in November.

"My choice was based on our family's safety and the importance of directing my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, the community will forever remain within me and my work," he affirmed.

Political Debate

Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit even though he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it should be a place for public city functions, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his previous Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Internally, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished consistent with the home's original era.

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

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.