With fears of a market slump and talk of recession, buying property in Kingston is as safe as houses according to new research.

Estate Agency Knight Frank compiled a list of the ten most recession-proof boroughs in London and Kingston came in at number two, pipped to the post only by neighbouring Richmond.

Luke Elwood, from Knight Frank's Richmond office, which covers Kingston, said there has been a "migration of purchasers" from central London to the borough who are drawn to the "attractive package" Kingston offers.

"Young families are the key market and the drivers for them are good security and a safe environment, better square footage, good gardens and exceptional schooling.

"The market is still moving and buyers are very keen to buy if there is sensible pricing and there is a good demand for property."

Knight Frank's research took into account affordability of housing, wage and unemployment levels, population growth and residents' qualifications.

Eight out of the ten boroughs in the list were in south London with Wandsworth ranked fifth, and Knight Frank's figures show that the average price of property in Kingston is £361,496, compared to £511,575 in Richmond.

James Stevenson, Kingston sales manager for Foxtons, echoed the research and said the quality of life, good schools, transport links and open spaces of Kingston is what appealed to buyers.

"Kingston is still affordable and remains a bit of a hidden gem," he said.

"It is close to London and you can get a lot for your money with big houses and gardens.

"A lot of people are moving out from the city - the market is certainly looking healthy."