New York mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced that he and his wife, Rama, will move into Gracie Mansion in January. He said the decision helps protect his family and allows him to focus fully on his affordability agenda for New Yorkers. Mamdani shared the update on social media and spoke warmly about their current home in Astoria.
He said their Astoria neighbourhood shaped him and will always influence his work. He also said they will miss the local energy, from Adeni chai to the many languages spoken on the streets.
Mamdani won the mayoral election last month by a wide margin. At 34, he will become the youngest mayor of New York in more than a century. His campaign centred on housing stability and affordability.
He faced criticism for living in a rent-stabilised apartment despite earning $142,000 a year. His one-bedroom unit costs about $2,300 a month and includes heat and hot water. The 1929 building also has an elevator, which is rare in Astoria.
Gracie Mansion offers stronger security, river views, and full-time staff. These features make it the preferred residence for most mayors. The Upper East Side location also provides safer surroundings and larger gathering spaces.
