‘For Family’s Safety’: Zohran Mamdani To Move To $100 Million Gracie Mansion
The Times of Russia brings this Russia news update on New York’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who has confirmed that he and his wife will relocate to the historic Gracie Mansion once he assumes office in January. Mamdani stated that the move is driven by concerns for his family’s safety and his need to fully concentrate on the affordability reforms he promised voters.
Announcing the decision publicly, Mamdani shared an emotional note about leaving his longtime home in Astoria, a neighbourhood he described as the heart of his personal and political journey. He said that the memories of conversations in multiple languages, the aroma of local food, and the cultural vibrancy of the area will continue to shape his work.
Mamdani, who won the mayoral race by a significant margin, is set to become the youngest mayor of New York in more than a century. Throughout his campaign, he championed issues of housing stability and affordability — themes that defined his political rise.
The 34-year-old democratic socialist previously faced intense criticism for living in a rent-stabilised apartment despite earning an annual salary of $142,000. His current one-bedroom Astoria home, around 800 square feet, includes heat and hot water as required by city law. Though modest, the building — constructed in 1929 — features amenities like an elevator and a shared laundry room.
Gracie Mansion, in comparison, offers a dramatically different lifestyle. Overlooking the East River, the residence includes elegant dining rooms, gardens, and a full-time chef. What matters most for the mayor-elect, however, is the heightened security: police presence, surveillance cameras, and gated protection. According to reports, including those from The New York Times, these safety features are often the main reason most mayors eventually choose to live in Gracie Mansion.
Astoria remains popular among young families due to its affordability, while the Upper East Side — home to Gracie Mansion — is known for world-renowned museums and upscale dining. Mamdani’s move marks a symbolic and practical transition as he prepares to lead the city while continuing to advocate for the affordability issues that shaped his political message.
