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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

A Historic Residence

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

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key issue, hesitated to declare he would live there immediately after his electoral win in November.

"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the need to directing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability voters elected me on," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its diverse cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he noted.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, it will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience an environment very different than his previous Astoria digs.

With its butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, which means the city imposes caps on how much building managers can increase rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent rises faster than what many can afford.

Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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