A magnetic storage element includes a first magnetic layer having a magnetization easy axis in a direction perpendicular to a surface of the first magnetic layer. A first non-magnetic layer is on the first magnetic layer. A second magnetic layer is on the first non-magnetic layer and has a fixed magnetization direction. A second non-magnetic layer is on the second magnetic layer. A third magnetic layer is on the second non-magnetic layer and has a fixed magnetization direction perpendicular to a surface of the third magnetic layer. A third non-magnetic layer is on the third magnetic layer. A storage layer on the third non-magnetic layer and having a variable magnetization direction with a magnetization easy axis in a direction perpendicular to a surface of the storage layer. Change in a magnetization direction of the first magnetic layer is easier than in the storage layer.