New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani will live in the Manhattan mansion that his predecessors have called home, leaving behind a rent-stabilised apartment that became the subject of heated debate during his campaign.
Gracie Mansion, which dates to 1799, has served as the residence for most New York City mayors since World War II. But Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm he would live there immediately following his victory in November.
This decision came down to our family's safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for, Mamdani said in a statement on Monday.
Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighborhood in Queens, known for its middle-class families and vibrant immigrant communities. To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City, he stated.
During his campaign, Mamdani's housing situation was a focal point as he tied his platform of freezing rent to his own experience. Despite facing criticism for his familial background, he has made clear his dedication to housing issues.
Unlike many mayors, not all have chosen to reside in Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, for example, opted for his own townhome instead, believing the mansion should be used for public functions.
As Mamdani prepares to move in around his inauguration on January 1, he will enter a historic home characterized by its butter yellow paint, and its reported five bedrooms, all enhanced with security features.
Interestingly, Gracie Mansion carries tales of supernatural activity, a quirk that outgoing Mayor Eric Adams humorously acknowledged in 2022.
Mamdani's current rent-stabilized apartment costs about $2,300 per month, contrasted against New York City's average rent of $3,500 for a one-bedroom, highlighting the pressing issue of housing affordability.
