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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point throughout his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for most New York City mayors since the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans promptly after his triumph in November.

"The choice came down to the security of my family and the importance of dedicating my full attention on implementing the affordability agenda the city's residents supported," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in Astoria, Queens, an area famous for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, the community will forever remain inside me and my work," he affirmed.

Political Debate

In his election campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he is from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side during his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it should be a place for official events, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment very different than his humble Astoria digs.

With its cream-colored walls, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's original era.

The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city imposes caps on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers see such units as essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds the average income.

It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.