A multi-layer piezoelectric element includes a multi-layer structure having a plurality of internal electrode layers and a plurality of piezoelectric ceramic layers. The multi-layer structure has a driving portion formed by stacking the plurality of internal electrode layers and the piezoelectric ceramic layers alternately on each other, and non-driving portions that are formed by stacking a plurality of the piezoelectric ceramic layers and are disposed on both end portions of the driving portion in a stacked direction. The piezoelectric ceramic layers of the non-driving portions have the same piezoelectric material as that of the piezoelectric ceramic layers of the driving portion as a main component, and have a mean crystal grain size larger than that of the driving portion.