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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era.

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

"This decision rested on our family's safety and the need to directing all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned for its vibrant immigrant communities and international dining.

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

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will always live inside me and the work I do," he added.

Political Debate

During his election campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his rivals, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit even though he came from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a venue for official events, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Within, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's original era.

The property, which is said to has several bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the cost of housing outpaces what many can afford.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.