An actuator that utilizes a Coulomb force is provided. An actuator (10) includes a base electrode (2), a counter electrode (4) opposing the base electrode (2), a first terminal (31) connected to the base electrode (2), and a second terminal (32) connected to the counter electrode (4). At least a surface (2c) of the base electrode (2) that opposes the counter electrode (4) is covered with an insulating layer (6). The counter electrode (4) includes a flexible electrical conductor being deformable by a Coulomb force acting between the base electrode (2) and the counter electrode (4) when a voltage is applied between the first terminal (31) and the second terminal (32).