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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point throughout his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core platform, hesitated to declare this decision right away following his victory in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of directing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a community known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live there, Astoria will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing although he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a place for public city functions, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period.

The compound, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what people claim," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is under rent control, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing 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 real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.