Programmer in a noisy open work-space environment here.
Monoprices cheap earbuds are pretty good quality wise and paired with a good pair of tips are awesome about eliminating noise. This is my current setup and people tend to need to IM me or tap me on my shoulder to get my attention now.
http://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-108320-Enhanced-Isolating-Earphones/dp/B007VEQ2UU
http://www.amazon.com/Comply-T-400-Isolation-Earphone-Black/dp/B002P7DBCK
Monoprice 8320 in ear monitors
They are super cheap and definitely punch above their weight. Worth giving them a shot before spending a bunch on something pricier. Best headphones I've owned.