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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point in his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for most New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, did not confirm he would live there right away after his electoral win in November.

"My choice came down to our family's safety and the need to focusing my complete efforts on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in Astoria, Queens, an area renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live there, the community will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

In his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his central policy – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

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

Rather, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a place for public city functions, and pushed for a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his modest Astoria digs.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Inside, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed to reflect the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the housing expenses rises faster than the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.