Julie Macklowe, a prominent socialite from New York City’s Upper East Side, has publicly endorsed a proposed tax on expensive second homes in the city, positioning herself uniquely within a debate often dominated by criticism of wealthy part-time residents who avoid local taxes.
Macklowe, known for her high-profile lifestyle and connections to New York’s real estate elite, published an opinion piece last week advocating for the pied-à-terre tax, which targets owners of multimillion-dollar secondary residences. The measure, which passed recently and will take effect next month, aims to address concerns that some affluent individuals who maintain part-time city residences contribute insufficiently to the city’s tax base.
Speaking from Sistina, a restaurant frequented by business leaders, Macklowe acknowledged the prevailing frustration in New York regarding the perceived tax advantages enjoyed by the ultrawealthy. “People are getting a free ride off those who choose to live here and be New Yorkers, and the others pop in and pretend they are New Yorkers but don’t actually pay any significant taxes,” she noted.
Despite her wealth and social status, Macklowe expressed a willingness to pay more in taxes to support the city’s infrastructure, citing the need to fund public services such as the subway system. Her stance stands in contrast to many in her socioeconomic group who oppose such levies. Macklowe’s perspective has drawn attention partly because she has voted for Donald Trump three times and has voiced criticism of New York’s current mayor. Yet she has praised certain policies of the former president, including his stance on Israel and his alliance with entrepreneur Elon Musk.
The tax debate has gained prominence amid broader political and social tensions in New York City, which houses more billionaires than any other location globally. resentment toward wealthy part-time residents contributed to political campaigns such as that of Zohran Mamdani and fueled heightened scrutiny of elite social events like the Met Gala—a gathering held near Macklowe’s Fifth Avenue residence.
Macklowe’s personal narrative reflects shifts in New York’s social scene over recent years. She described a decline in traditional civic engagement by wealthy New Yorkers since the COVID-19 pandemic, observing that many affluent individuals relocated to lower-tax states such as Florida. She also remarked on changes in social gatherings and cultural events, remarking that some have become more ostentatious and less familiar.
Her advocacy for the pied-à-terre tax came after discussions with a Wall Street Journal editor at a dinner hosted by former politician Andrew Stein. Macklowe reportedly spent several hours drafting her formal argument in favor of the tax, marking her first foray into published political commentary.
While the tax measure has supporters, it has also prompted criticism, including from some of Macklowe’s acquaintances living outside New York, who have expressed disapproval of her position. Nonetheless, she remains firm, citing a commitment to paying her share and identifying herself as an “Aspen person,” signaling alignment with a lifestyle that balances wealth with a sense of responsibility.
The new tax on luxury second homes reflects ongoing efforts in New York City to address the fiscal challenges posed by a widening wealth gap and to ensure that all residents contribute equitably to the city’s public needs.