I'm building a multilevel model from a sample of 820 observations at level 1 and 11 groups (level 2). I'm using stata `xtmixed`.

Running the empty model (including just the dependent variable) I get:

- variance at level 1 (residual) = 0.6
- variance at level 2 (_cons): 0.03
- So the Intraclass correlation coefficient is 5%
- AIC: 1860 
- BIC: 1875

Are my absolute values of variance too small? Too close to zero? Is there a recommended threshold given the sample size?
From my [previous question][1] I learnt that having a very low ICC is ok.

Are AIC or BIC values too high, considering the sample size and the variance values? I mean, is there a rule that given around 800 observations tells me which should be an appropriate starting value for AIC/BIC?


  [1]: https://stats.stackexchange.com/questions/125601/acceptable-values-for-the-intraclass-correlation-coefficient-empty-model