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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for most New York City mayors since the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, did not confirm this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," Mamdani said on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its abundance of immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, the community will always live within me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

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

Yet his critics, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the apartment even though he came from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a venue for civic gatherings, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment very different than his modest Astoria home.

Featuring butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

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

The estate, which is said to has several bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than the average income.

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

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.