New York Mayor Mamdani and First Lady Begin Official Residence at Gracie Mansion
New York City’s newly elected mayor Zohran Mamdani and First Lady Rama Duwaji have officially moved into Gracie Mansion, the city’s historic mayoral residence on the Upper East Side. The couple began living at the landmark home on Monday, January 12, marking the start of their tenure at one of New York’s most recognizable official addresses.
Speaking outside the mansion, Mayor Mamdani welcomed New Yorkers with a lighthearted message, saying that while it was his first time greeting the public from Gracie Mansion, it would certainly not be the last. He extended the welcome on behalf of both himself and the First Lady, emphasizing openness and accessibility.
The move represents a significant change for the couple, who had been longtime residents of Queens. Prior to taking office, Mamdani and Duwaji lived in a rent-stabilized one-bedroom apartment in Astoria. They have now relocated to the nearly 11,000-square-foot Gracie Mansion, which has served as the official home of many past New York City mayors.
Mamdani expressed appreciation for the warm reception they have received from neighbors in the Upper East Side. He noted that the area holds personal meaning for him, as he spent part of his childhood there and frequently visited nearby museums during his teenage years. Returning to the neighborhood, he said, feels both familiar and meaningful.
The mayor also shared plans to make a few modest personal touches to the residence. In a joking remark, he mentioned the idea of installing bidets in some of the bathrooms and said he hopes to adopt a cat during his time at the mansion.
Local residents said they are looking forward to seeing the mayor walking around the neighborhood and welcomed the opportunity to have him as a neighbor.
Addressing the long-standing ghost stories associated with Gracie Mansion, Mamdani dismissed the rumors with humor. He said he has not encountered anything unusual so far and added that he has neither seen nor heard from any ghosts since moving in.
