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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

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

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central platform, was not quick to announce this decision right away following his victory in November.

"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability the city's residents elected me on," stated Mamdani on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.

"To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live there, Astoria will continue to reside within me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

But his rivals, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing even though he came from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

With its butter yellow paint, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Within, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished to reflect the home's original era.

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

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent-stabilized, which means the city imposes caps on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent rises faster than the means of many residents.

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

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.