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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that was a central issue during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors since the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key issue, did not confirm he would live there immediately after his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on the security of my family and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district known for its diverse immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain a part of me and my work," he said.

Political Debate

In his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it should be a venue for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's original era.

The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

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

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.