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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors since the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, hesitated to declare this decision promptly after his electoral win in November.

"My choice came down to our family's safety and the importance of directing my complete efforts on implementing the affordability agenda the city's residents supported," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community known for its vibrant immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

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

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain inside me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

A Contentious Issue

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

However his opponents, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

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

In his view, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a place for civic gatherings, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

With its pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

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

The estate, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors occasionally opened and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

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

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the housing expenses outpaces what many can afford.

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

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.