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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue during his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately after his victory in November.

"My choice came down to the security of my family and the imperative to dedicating my complete efforts on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents supported," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

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

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for demonstrating the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live there, it will forever remain inside me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment although he hails from a famous 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 private home on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

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

Adorned in cream-colored walls, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's original era.

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

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as valuable lifelines as the housing expenses rises faster than the average income.

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

According to the property website Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.