The present invention reduces the footprint of a stage apparatus to achieve a more compact apparatus. Using a Y-axis shaft having a magnet on the inside and a Y-axis mover constituted by a coil that surrounds the Y-axis shaft as a Y-axis drive part for moving a Y-axis movable body makes the drive part smaller than a linear motor. Consequently, a lateral part that faces a side gliding surface is arranged downwardly of the one Y-axis mover, to thereby eliminate the footprint occupied by the lateral part when lined up side-by-side with the Y-axis drive part.