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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm his residency plans immediately after his victory in November.

"My choice was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing my full attention on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a district known for its abundance of immigrant populations and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, it will continue to reside a part of me and my work," he said.

Campaign Controversy

In his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

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

Rather, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his humble Astoria digs.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

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

The property, which is said to has several bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.