Stephen Sanford (May 26, 1826 – February 13, 1913) was an American businessman and a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York's 18th congressional district.

Born in Mayfield, New York, he was the son of Mary (née Slack) and her husband John Sanford (1803–1857).

His father retired but Stephen Sanford rebuilt the business to the point where it was employing twenty-five hundred workers.

Stephen Sanford operated Hurricana Stock Farm near the town of Amsterdam, New York where he bred and trained thoroughbred racehorses.

His grandson, also named Stephen, owned Sergeant Murphy, the 1923 winner of England's Grand National steeplechase.