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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point during his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for most New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key platform, did not confirm he would live there right away after his victory in November.

"This decision was based on keeping my family safe and the importance of dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability the city's residents elected me on," Mamdani said on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will always live within me and the work I do," he said.

Political Debate

During his election campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for official events, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed consistent with the home's original era.

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

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

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

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

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