New York's next mayor states plans to make his home in the storied Gracie Mansion
The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.
A Traditional Abode
Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.
However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, did not confirm his residency plans immediately following his victory in November.
"My choice was based on our family's safety and the need to focusing my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in a statement.
Leaving Astoria
He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area famous for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.
"To Astoria: many thanks for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted.
"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, it will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he said.
Campaign Controversy
Throughout his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.
Yet his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the apartment although he is from a prominent family.
Not All Mayors Stayed
Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which ended in 2012.
Instead, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for civic gatherings, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.
A Stately Residence
As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.
With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.
Internally, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed to reflect the home's historical period.
The compound, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.
Supernatural Speculation
Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.
Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.
Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."
A Critical Policy Issue
His former home is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city sets limits on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.
New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford.
Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.
According to the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.
