The imaging optical system consists of, in order from a magnification side: a catoptric system; and a dioptric system that includes a plurality of lenses. The dioptric system forms a first intermediate image between the dioptric system and the catoptric system on an optical path and at a position conjugate to a reduction side imaging surface, and the catoptric system re-forms the first intermediate image on a magnification side imaging surface. The catoptric system consists of, in order from the magnification side along the optical path, a first reflective surface having a positive power, a second reflective surface having a curved surface shape, and a third reflective surface having a positive power.