A variable resistance nonvolatile memory element capable of suppressing a variation in resistance values is provided. A nonvolatile memory element according to the present invention includes: a silicon substrate (11); a lower electrode layer (102) formed on the silicon substrate (11); a variable resistance layer formed on the lower electrode layer (102); an upper electrode layer (104) formed on the variable resistance layer; a second interlayer insulating layer (19) formed to directly cover at least side surfaces of the lower electrode layer (102) and the variable resistance layer; a stress buffering region layer (105) for buffering a stress on the upper electrode layer (104), the stress buffering region layer being formed to directly cover at least an upper surface and side surfaces of the upper electrode layer (104) and comprising a material having a stress smaller than a stress of an insulating layer used as the second interlayer insulating layer (19); a second contact (16) extending to the upper electrode layer (104); and a wiring pattern (18) connected to the second contact (16).