A memory element includes: a memory layer disposed between a first electrode and a second electrode. The memory layer includes: an ion source layer containing one or more metallic elements, and one or more chalcogen elements of tellurium (Te), sulfur (S), and selenium (Se); and a resistance change layer disposed between the ion source layer and the first electrode, the resistance change layer including a layer which includes tellurium and nitrogen (N) and is in contact with the ion source layer.