Known as Cholay in 1153, the village included the areas Bonvard, Briffod, Chevrier, La Capite, and Miolan.
The population was 430 in 1822, 468 in 1850, 430 in 1900, 462 in 1950, 799 in 1990, and 935 in 2000.
Archaeological findings indicate Roman occupation despite marshes that were drained in the 20th century. Choulex was ruled by the lords of Cholay, later controlled by the Savoy from the 14th century until 1798.
It became part of Geneva after the Treaty of Turin.