A linear actuator may include a stator; a movable element; a spring member connected to the movable element and the stator and structured to support the movable element in such a way as to be movable with respect to the stator in a direction of an axis line; a magnetic drive mechanism structured to drive the movable element in the direction of the axis line; and a gel damper member placed at a position on a center line of the movable element or one of a group of positions surrounding the center line, between the stator and the movable element.