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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central issue, did not confirm his residency plans immediately after his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on keeping my family safe and the importance of focusing my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community known for its diverse cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, Astoria will continue to reside within me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

In his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

However his rivals, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the apartment even though he came from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it should be a place for official events, and pushed for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

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

Inside, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era.

The compound, which is said to has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can raise the rent each year.

Tenants see such units as valuable lifelines as the cost of housing outpaces the means of many residents.

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

According to the real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.